Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is a deliciously creamy and cheesy dish that brings together the bold flavors of buffalo chicken with the comforting goodness of macaroni and cheese. Perfect for game nights, family dinners, or a cozy evening at home, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Its unique blend of spices and cheeses makes it an unforgettable meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of buffalo sauce and ranch dressing adds a zesty kick that elevates traditional macaroni and cheese.
• Cheesy Goodness: With three types of cheese, you’ll experience a creamy texture that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or a side, this recipe fits various occasions from casual gatherings to family dinners.
• Kid-Friendly: The fun flavors make it appealing for kids, while adults will appreciate its comforting taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Baking dish
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the cavatappi noodles to al dente perfection.
• Baking dish: Provides the right environment for baking your Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese evenly.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth cheese sauce by blending ingredients thoroughly without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Mixture

• 1 cup (140 g) shredded cooked rotisserie chicken
• 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce
• 2 tablespoons ranch dressing

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces cavatappi noodles, (cooked al dente and drained)

For the Cheese Sauce

• ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter
• ¼ cup (31 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (490 ml) whole milk, (warmed)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground mustard powder
• ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper, (optional)
• ½ cup (56.5 g) sharp cheddar cheese, (freshly grated)
• ¼ cup (28 g) mozzarella cheese, (freshly grated)
• ¼ cup (28 g) mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup (28 g) cheddar cheese

For Topping

• Salt and pepper, (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon buffalo sauce
• 1 tablespoon ranch dressing
• Parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your dish cooks evenly when placed inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cavatappi Noodles

Boil water in a large pot. Add cavatappi noodles and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the noodles and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large pot over medium heat:
1. Melt the butter until bubbly.
2. Whisk in flour until smooth; cook for about 1 minute.
3. Gradually add warmed milk while whisking continuously until thickened.
4. Stir in kosher salt, ground mustard powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), sharp cheddar cheese, and mozzarella until melted.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add shredded rotisserie chicken to the cheese sauce along with buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. Mix well before adding cooked cavatappi noodles. Stir until everything is coated in that delicious sauce.

Step 5: Bake Your Dish

Transfer the mixture into a baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Bake in preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove from oven carefully. Drizzle with extra buffalo sauce and ranch dressing if desired. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving hot! Enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese!

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate this tasty dish.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Carrot Sticks: Crunchy carrot sticks offer a fresh contrast to the creamy macaroni.
• Celery Sticks: Serve with ranch dip for an extra flavor kick.
• Cucumber Slices: Light and refreshing, they can balance the richness of the dish.

As a Main Dish

• Top with Extra Cheese: A sprinkle of additional cheese on top before serving adds a delightful stretch.
• Garnish with Parsley: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile.

In a Bowl

• Add Extra Sauce: Drizzle more buffalo sauce over the top for those who love heat.
• Serve with Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks can be perfect for dipping into the cheesy goodness.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

To ensure your Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This helps prevent mushy noodles in your final dish.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving helps it set up nicely.
• Add Protein Variations: Try using grilled chicken or turkey if you’re looking for alternatives.

Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

Pairing side dishes with Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the richness of the macaroni.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing cut through the creaminess of the main dish.
3. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy choice that adds color and nutrition to your plate.
4. Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tanginess contrast beautifully with the cheesy pasta.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a classic side that pairs well with bold flavors.
6. Baked Beans: Add a twist of sweetness that balances out the spiciness of the buffalo sauce.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness offers a delicious contrast to savory macaroni.
8. Garden Salad: A light salad provides freshness and balances out heavy cheese dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish.

• Using cold ingredients – Ensure your milk and chicken are at room temperature for a smooth sauce.
• Overcooking the pasta – Cook the cavatappi noodles just until al dente; they will continue cooking in the oven.
• Not seasoning enough – Taste your cheese sauce before baking. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper for better flavor.
• Skipping the cheese blend – Use a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor; relying on only one type can lead to a bland dish.
• Underestimating buffalo sauce – Start with less buffalo sauce if you’re unsure about spice levels. You can always add more later.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F. Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute increments until hot.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk for creaminess while stirring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese.

How can I make my Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese spicier?

You can add more buffalo sauce or cayenne pepper to increase the heat level according to your taste.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for unique flavors in your Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total time is around 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese is great for meal prep. Just store it properly for quick meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese combines creamy cheese with spicy buffalo chicken, making it an irresistible comfort food. It’s perfect as is but also allows plenty of room for customization. You can tweak the spices or add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition. Give it a try, and enjoy a cozy meal that everyone will love!